So, you want to make a run to Yosemite. Or better yet Fresno? It is easy enough to get to Lyon's exit in Valencia for an In n Out burger stop, but what's next?
Bakersfield is over the Grapevine and with it two more In n Out burgers right on the 99, but since you just had one 90 minutes ago, you are looking for something a little bit different.
Then the signs start. Just like those Burma shave signs in the 60's that would go on and on adding a little more to the story as you passed each one.
This time it's for Bravo Farms Cheese Factory. I don't even like cheese, at least not on purpose. Sure, I'll have a cheeseburger or a pizza, but to snack on cheese? Forget it. So why would I choose to stop here? Well, I was conned into it. Picking up an order for a couple of friends. Club members even. We'll keep the names out of it just in case you don't like to gnaw on a chunk of cheese and think it is weird for them to do so.
I mean, think about it. You are driving in your car, you open a bag of Lay's potato chips, get your hands all greasy, wipe your fingers on the side of your cloth seats, and all is good.
But a chunk of cheese? Who would even think about snacking on cheese while you are driving? Give me a bag of chips anytime!
Well, this isn't a story about chips, it is about a place in the middle of nowhere Californa - Traver City. About 30 minutes south of Fresno. Good part is, if you don't like cheese, good food isn't too far off if you are traveling north - and yes, there is another In n Out in Fresno right on the 99..... |
One of the first things to greet you are these two roosters... |
Remember at the fair when you used to feed the chickens and they would play the piano? |
Not these guys! Get your fingers anywhere near them with the 25 cent feed, and you won't have a finger left... |
I ain't no yella chicken... |
Go ahead, try me!!! |
No matter where you turn there is something to look at... |
The required petting zoo... |
Okay, I'll admit it. The place is great for getting out and stretching your legs... |
No this isn't real cheese... |
This is! They Make it right in the back! |
More than a few pounds at once too! |
Now what would a cheese factory be without a place to get some BBQ? Well, it isn't much of a place at all when they aren't cooking any of it up! Guess that is what I get for coming by at around 7:30 p.m.
Bravo Farms has a great little restaurant that a lot of people were enjoying, along with a 16 flavor ice cream stand. It really is the perfect stop to get you away from the standard Burger King along the highway. Gas prices are decent, and it is easy to get on and off.
Check them out at www.bravofarms.com. Great country music plays in the background, but not a whole lot to the website. They must be out back concentrating on making the cheese..
I'll give it a 5 out of 5 for atmosphere, but you can have the cheese!
Where will I stop next? We'll see! Stay tuned! |